Thursday, August 31, 2017

Monthly Wrap Up - August 2017

Systems are working.

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August was pretty much more of the same as the last few months, as expected - less packaging, more cooking, more making. Measurable progress compared to July, and the least wasteful month of all for this year.

In fact, I would estimate that 75% of plastic was from ordering music gear or electronic components - so that's a good sign.

I've been making most of my own household cleaners from raw materials.

I've been making my own toothpaste, mouthwash, moisturiser, shaving oil and for the first time deodorant - which has worked really well. This was something of a Rubicon crossing for me, beyond toothpaste and shampoo.

I've continued making and using shampoo and conditioner, and have refined the bodywash formula.

I've enjoyed pickling different items - this has worked well as a flavourful addition to frozen foods.

I've also put a number of things through the dehydrator. Good snacks for work and on the move, and quick meal preparation.

I picked up a biodegradable keep cup.

I've cooked and frozen a total of sixty meals, which should cover all lunches and dinners in September.

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Waste was minimal this month. No glass, cardboard or tins; not much in the way of aluminium, hard plastics or soft plastics. This is missing one bottle of beer that I had when I was out one night, though.

Cardboard has been burned to ash and composted. Any glass has been re-used in the household. So, as always, this represents waste that is leaving the house.

I would like to reduce this to zero for a whole month sometime this year.